How platform corporate execs might justify their widespread layoffs so far this year

Big tech really went from “always hiring” to “always firing”. The opening act of 2024 is driving that point home, with each day seemingly delivering a fresh batch of pink slips. And, as per usual, there’s been a mix of scorching hot takes and finger-pointing galore, as industry observers try to decipher this chaotic spectacle.

Before we start the platform blame game, let’s take a moment to contextualize just how far-reaching these layoffs have become.

Google already cut jobs across the business last month impacting over 1,000 roles, while hundreds more were impacted in its advertising division, and around 100 more across YouTube’s business. TikTok also laid off around 60 staff from the app’s sales and ads team, while Meta’s latest restructure requires staff to reapply for their roles (though there are significantly fewer vacancies), Twitch has reduced its headcount by 35%, and Discord reduced its workforce by 17%.

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